Who we are

Age UK Sunderland works in partnership across the City of Sunderland to provide a free and dedicated service for people who have been diagnosed with mild to moderate dementia and their carers.

Funded by NHS North East and North Cumbria, the Essence Service offers a wide range of practical support by giving information in areas around health, wellbeing and legal issues while ensuring people are aware of how to access services that are of benefit to them.

People with mild to moderate dementia also receive emotional and peer support to help understand and deal with their dementia diagnosis in a positive way.

Evidence suggests that keeping active and stimulated when a person has mild to moderate dementia is essential as it slows down its progression and maintains wellbeing.

With this in mind, the Essence Service offers a variety of activities from its Doxford Park centre in Sunderland and in the wider community.

Activities can include coffee mornings, reminiscence sessions, seated exercise and much more.

The Essence Service also recognises the vital role of carers and the impact caring for someone with dementia can have, and is dedicated to providing a listening ear to carers as well as practical support and signposting.

The Essence building has received awards for its dementia-friendly design, and every attention to detail has been made to ensure that those who receive support feel as comfortable as they can be in a welcoming environment.  

We support all residents of Sunderland including the Coalfields and Washington.